Administrators have been appointed to Glens of Antrim Potatoes, a Northern Ireland food manufacturer, following the cessation of trading operations. The firm, which operates production facilities in Cushendall and Ballymena, has made redundant the vast majority of its 95-strong workforce, retaining only a small team to assist with the administration process.
Stuart Irwin, Ian Leonard and Robin Coughlin from Interpath were appointed joint administrators to Glens of Antrim Potatoes Ltd on Monday. The appointment triggered an immediate halt to all commercial activity. A formal statement confirmed that
following the appointment, the company has ceased to trade, and that
as a result, and with deep regret, all of the company's employees, with the exception of a small skeleton staff retained to support the administrators, have been made redundant.
What was the company's background?
Glens of Antrim Potatoes was established in 1972 and became known for manufacturing hand-cooked potato crisps sold under the Glens of Antrim Crisps brand. The business had developed into a significant regional producer. Stuart Irwin, managing director at Interpath and one of the joint administrators, characterised the company as having been
growing and supplying potatoes across Ireland for over 50 years. He described the administration as
a tremendously sad outcome for the business, its dedicated team, the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland, and the wider community in Ballymena and Cushendall.
What has the political response been?
North Antrim MP Jim Allister responded to the administration with concern about its broader implications. He characterised the development as
very disappointingand
a substantial blow to the agricultural sector. Allister emphasised the timing of the collapse, stating
This is a serious matter, particularly at this time of year, and expressed optimism about a potential recovery, adding
It is my fervent hope that a suitable buyer will emerge.
